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Military Epidemiologists / Infectious Disease Physicians

Military Career

General Information

Description

Epidemiologists/infectious disease physicians are on the front lines of global health, particularly in the wake of major disease outbreaks like COVID-19; Ebola in 2014; natural disasters like the Nepal earthquakes of 2015; HIV/AIDS; deliberate release of microorganisms; and antimicrobial resistance. Physicians who specialize in epidemiology and infectious disease study the causes, patterns, and effects of diseases in the Military community. They oversee laboratory tests to confirm infectious diseases and study modes of transmission. They recommend treatment protocols as well as initiatives for disease prevention and control.

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Work Environment

Epidemiologists/infectious disease physicians work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure
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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Officer
    • Managerial/professional
    • College degree required

Military Workforce

Epidemiologists / Infectious Disease Physicians in the Military

2,055

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Salary

Salary Information

Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.

$127,387

Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.

$62,503 - $292,243

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Master's degree 66%
  • Post-doctoral training 22%
  • Doctoral degree 11%
  • High school 0%
  • Some college 0%
  • Bachelor's degree 0%
  • Associate's degree 0%
  • Post baccalaureate 0%
  • Less than high school 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • First professional degree 0%
  • Post-secondary certificate 0%

Military training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for epidemiologists/infectious disease physicians primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments. Scholarships for advanced medical training are available in return for an obligated period of military service. Qualifying students benefit through unique training experiences and get to attend certain military short courses designed to develop tactical, technical and operational skills unique to the military environment. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include: Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety/TeamSTEPPS® Essentials and Fundamentals Mishap Investigation and Prevention Operational Aeromedical Problems Senior LeadershipJoint Operations Medical Management

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Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership

Knowledge

  • Biology
  • Mathematics
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Education and Training
  • English Language

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